Multiple Choice
In Newton's law of universal gravitation, the magnitude of the gravitational force between two point masses is . Which two factors determine the strength of the gravitational force?
16
views
8. Centripetal Forces & Gravitation
Newton's Law of Gravity
Multiple Choice
In the context of Newton's law of universal gravitation, what type of force is gravity between two masses?
A
A long-range attractive force that acts between all masses
B
A force that can be either attractive or repulsive depending on electric charge
C
A short-range repulsive force that acts only at molecular distances
D
A contact force that requires physical touching between objects
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall Newton's law of universal gravitation, which states that every pair of masses attracts each other with a force proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them.
Understand that this gravitational force acts over any distance, no matter how large, meaning it is a long-range force.
Recognize that gravity is always attractive; it pulls masses toward each other and never repels.
Note that gravity acts between all masses, regardless of their size or composition, and does not require physical contact between the objects.
Conclude that gravity is a long-range attractive force acting between all masses, distinguishing it from forces that can be repulsive, short-range, or contact forces.
Related Videos
Related Practice
